It doesn't have to be Chinese New Year to feast around Chinatown on Oahu. (Although, with traditional lion dances, live music and fireworks, the annual celebration is an exciting time to visit this historic district.) Luckily, these top eateries are serving delicious dishes all year long — just remember to bring your appetite.
Satisfy cravings for Cantonese noodles
Lam's Kitchen
1152 Maunakea St. # A, HonoluluLook no further for authentic Cantonese look fun, made from scratch, with family recipes from China. The noodle shop specializes in look fun and ton mein, but you'll find plenty of other classic dishes like congee (rice soup).
Be sure to order: wonton, beef chow fun and beef brisket look fun
Caption: Beef chow fun is one of the most popular dishes at the tasty casual eatery Lam’s Kitchen
Savor legendary baked goods and dim sum
1027 Maunakea St., Honolulu
Follow the sweet aromas of fresh-baked buns and pastries to Sing Cheong Yuan — you might have to stand in line, but it’s worth the wait. You won’t soon forget the flaky su and abundant dim sum options.
Be sure to order: manapua, char siu su and pork hash
Caption: The line for buns and pastries at Sing Cheong Yuan Bakery is worth the wait.
Try mouthwatering Cantonese-style barbecue meats
Nam Fong
1029 Maunakea St., Honolulu
The roast ducks hanging in the window at Nam Fong, next door to Sing Cheong Yuen, might steal your attention (and your food cravings). The juicy, spiced meat with crispy skin is cooked just right, every time.
Be sure to order: roast duck, crispy roast pork and char siu
Treat your taste buds to Taiwanese dishes
Season's Ice & Eatery
100 N. Beretania St. #117, Honolulu
Find out why the national dish of Taiwan is beef noodle soup, plus sample various other iconic Taiwanese dishes, at Season’s in the heart of the Chinatown Culture Plaza. The tender braised beef and tendon takes a delectable spin here and will definitely make you want to come back for more.
Be sure to order: spicy beef noodle soup and Taiwanese popcorn chicken
Caption: Season’s Ice & Eatery features traditional Taiwanese dishes, including a classic favorite, popcorn chicken.
Indulge in generous dim sum
Fook Lam
100 N. Beretania St., Honolulu
You don't have to settle for just one dish at Fook Lam — here, variety is key. Take your picks from the steaming dim sum baskets and fried plates that are offered from the dim sum carts pushed around the restaurant. Don't forget to finish up your meal with a tasty bowl of rice porridge as well.
Be sure to order: steamed and fried dumplings, sticky rice, jin dui and egg custard tarts